Santi Cazorla reveals Mikel Arteta talks over Arsenal return as retirement looms
Santi Cazorla played for Arsenal with Mikel Arteta and has admitted conversations over a return have taken place with the Gunners boss ahead of his playing career coming to a close
Former Arsenal midfielder Santi Cazorla has revealed he has discussed a return with Mikel Arteta, as he prepares to retire this summer.
The Spanish ace is currently plying his trade for Real Oviedo as the side bid for promotion to La Liga, for the first time in 23 years, from the Segunda Division. The 38-year-old returned to his boyhood club last year and asked not to be paid a salary.
Oviedo are currently in the midst of the play-offs to earn their promotion and recorded a goalless draw in the first leg of their tie against Eibar. Cazorla did not feature in the opening clash.
The two-footed star's playing career is set to come to an end this month, opening up the possibility of a return to the Emirates. Cazorla spent six years in north London and became a fan favourite while sharing time with friend and teammate Arteta.
READ MORE: William Saliba makes it clear where he stands among best Premier League defendersREAD MORE: Emmanuel Petit picks between Arsenal and Chelsea to name perfect club for Benjamin SeskoThe Gunners boss has previously left the door open for Cazorla to join his staff, while the man himself has said 'I really want to go back'. The former Spain international conceded conversations had taken place but remains focused on the final days of his playing career for the moment.
"I have a very special affection for Arsenal," Cazorla told Sky Sports . "I spent six wonderful years there and I know how much all the people love me there.
"Of course, I was fortunate to share a dressing room with Mikel Arteta and now he is the manager. We had conversations about that but right now I am not focused on anything other than contributing to this club, Oviedo, and continuing to enjoy football as a player.
"After that, we will see what the future holds for me. It is clear that Arsenal is a club that has always left the door open to me to return. But right now, I have enough on my mind with the play-offs and trying to enjoy the last days of my playing career."
Earlier this season, Arsenal boss Arteta outlined what Cazorla could bring to his coaching set-up. The Gunners coach accepted he was open to his friend's return.
"Depending on the role. You know my sympathy for Santi," Arteta told Sky Sports.
"We used to get on really, really well. I think he had an unbelievable energy that, as a coaching staff to have someone like that, that can trust with his knowledge, but his energy as well to the team. I think it’s going to be valid."
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